TPI84GMC

We came across an '89 1LE Camaro in need of a restoration. Interior Paint motor. What would be a fair price for this car? It has the option codes in the glove box and is definately a real 1LE car.

scottmoyer

Can't answer based on the details you've given. We need to know quite a bit more to make a valid guess at a value. Based on what you've said, I'd say less than a grand. Are all the original parts still in place?

Mark_ZZ3

Check for option code "R7U" ... if so, it is a CAnadian Player's Challenge race car. 76 (if I remember correctly) of the 111 made were shipped to Canada and 72 or 74 were race cars. So there isn't many in the US.

As for value ... 1LE will increase it's value. Make sure front brakes are intact. Front and rear struts were unique to 1LE as well.

Depends if you want to restore it or just have a near rare car to drive "as-is".

Mark.

TPI84GMC

Thats the thing. WE bought the car as a donor car for the TPI and motor for another project then found out what it was because of a want ad of craigslist. After contacting the guy he immediatly wanted to come see the car and offered 2k on the spot. For an 89 camaro that doesnt run... This is why we think there is more to this car than we know. He seemed like he knew what he was looking at too. It appears all the options are intact. dual cats no fogs etc.

scottmoyer

If the car is complete and just needs work, then the car could have a higher value once restored. In it's present state, it doesn't carry much more than a regular Camaro of the same generation except to a buyer looking for one. Some magazines are referring to the 1LE of the 3rd gens as equal to the COPOs of the 60's and 70's. I'm not so sure I agree as the COPOs were built mechanically different. The 3rd gen 1LEs had the same engine, trans and rear as any other similarly equipped 3rd gen. It did, however, have the larger brake setup. Does this qualify as a COPO of the 3rd gen? I don't know.

Mark_ZZ3

I'm bias of course, but I believe the Player's cars the 80's COPO's. Same story, although I agree with Scott that the parts are just stock parts. The earlier cars had some not-yet-product stuff, which makes them sorta neat (kinda like the crossram intake in 69 ... well ok not that neat!).

The 89 1LE was the first year for the option code. It's well known ... more than the Canadian Player's stuff. For 1989 anyways, it will be the 2nd or 3 highest value. Perhaps the Anniversary TA will be top, then the Verts, and then the 1LE, then the rest.

Mark.

al8apex

that person was me and I offered $2000 as a counter to your request of $2500 for the "whole" car, not minus the engine and engine wiring and ECM

It was worth the extra $1000 to ME (maybe no one else) to keep the car intact

As it turned out I could've saved $150 as I found a RUNNING LB9 with ALL the necessary wiring for $850 in exchange for the non running engine IN the car that you wanted for the sand rail project.

I am happy to own the car and bring it "back", not sure what my total "investment" is going to be as I found "regular" cars for less, but then I am weird and LIKE the 305 with the 5-speed trans :-)

The reason I wanted it was to autox it and I think they are neat and will make a great bookend for my 70 Z28 ...

al8apex

there were 6 1988 1LE's that were made, 4 Camaros, 2 Firebirds

OmahaKnightsFan

In January I picked up a 1991 1LE. I wasn't sure at first if I should believe the option codes, but it has the true dual exhaust... larger gas take (assuming with the floating pick-ups)... manual windows/locks... aluminum drive shaft... enlarge breaks (4 wheel aluminum disk).

the car is in rough shape at best and my son and I are thinking about restoring it... but what is it really worth if we restore it?

Chris

LeonardS

Unfortunately its value will probably be higher to you and your son than to anyone else. It will still be a great project and one that the two of you can have many hours enjoying. I just wouldn't plan on it making you thousands of dollars.

Leonard

OmahaKnightsFan

Thanks Leonard. I guess the real difference I've noticed is price of parts. Break shoes for instance... I could get for a normal camaro for $37 / pair. Mine were $106/pair because of the special brakes...

I think I'm just going to keep it for what it is and enjoy the restoration with my son.

Chris